Final answer:
A Whipple operation is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of a portion of the pancreas, part of the small intestine (duodenum), the gallbladder, and sometimes part of the bile duct and stomach. It is commonly performed to treat pancreatic cancer or other conditions affecting these organs.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Whipple operation, also known as a pancreaticoduodenectomy, is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of a portion of the pancreas, part of the small intestine (duodenum), the gallbladder, and sometimes part of the bile duct and stomach. This procedure is commonly performed to treat pancreatic cancer or other conditions affecting these organs.
For example, if a patient has pancreatic cancer that has not spread beyond the pancreas, a Whipple operation may be recommended to remove the tumor and affected organs. During the surgery, the remaining organs are reconstructed to allow for normal digestion.